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Serum or plasma concentration of total protein (protein, total)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of protein in your blood, which helps assess overall protein balance and potential nutritional or kidney issues.

Quick summary

["Total protein helps check for conditions like malnutrition or kidney problems."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
18563-7
Short code
J Pnt ST Amp+60ms L-V2
Synonyms
J Pnt ST Amp+60ms L-V2
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate your nutritional status, detect kidney disease (such as kidney failure), or monitor conditions like liver disease or severe infections. It can also help diagnose conditions like protein-losing gastrointestinal disorders or certain cancers.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results are not given in absolute numbers since reference ranges vary by lab and age. Your provider will interpret the result in relation to your health status and other tests. Low levels may suggest malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, while high levels could indicate dehydration, inflammation, or conditions like multiple myeloma.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. The test measures the total amount of protein (including albumin and globulins) in the sample.

What Are Common Conditions Monitored?

Total protein levels are commonly monitored in patients with suspected or known conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, inflammatory diseases, or certain cancers. It can also be used to track response to treatments.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What does a total protein test measure?
This test measures the combined amount of all proteins in your blood, including albumin and globulins. It does not distinguish between specific types of proteins.
Your healthcare provider will determine how often you need this test based on your medical history, symptoms, and treatment plan. Some patients may need it yearly, while others may require it more frequently.
Typically, you can eat and drink normally before this test unless your provider instructs otherwise. Blood tests like this are usually done in the morning on an empty stomach for some tests, but this depends on the specific test and your provider’s instructions.
What are the possible side effects of this test?
The most common side effect is a slight bruise, redness, or soreness at the injection site. Rarely, there may be pain or swelling. If you experience excessive bleeding or unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy